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What are the steps to obtain a green card through employment, and how long does the process typically take?

To obtain a green card through employment, an individual must first have a job offer from a U.S. employer who is willing to sponsor their green card application. The employer must file a petition on behalf of the employee with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and obtain approval before the employee can proceed to the next steps.

If the petition is approved, the employee must then apply for an immigrant visa through the Department of State or adjust their status if they are already in the U.S. If applying for an immigrant visa, the employee must attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. If adjusting status, the employee must attend an interview with USCIS.

The entire process of obtaining a green card through employment can take several months to several years, depending on a variety of factors such as the type of job, the individual's country of origin, and the backlog of applications at USCIS and the Department of State. In some cases, individuals may be eligible for expedited processing or premium processing to speed up the process.

It is important to note that not all jobs are eligible for green card sponsorship, and some job categories may have additional requirements or limitations. It is recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to determine eligibility and navigate the green card application process.

Additionally, individuals may explore other options for obtaining permanent residency, such as through family sponsorship, the Diversity Visa Program, or asylum.